Weather
Brutal consecutive March wind — gusts 35–45 mph; Haydn’s had enough. Classic OK four seasons (vs late summer when you can’t buy a breeze for drifting/Sand Bass).
Crappie
Haydn’s first Crappie trip of the year yesterday — about four limits, docks and deeper brush, not shallow yet. Bank spawn historically ~April 8–15 (as early as April 1 with steady warm; closer to the 15th after cold fronts like this backside cool-down). Spawn window often stretches April 8 into early May — north/murkier end first, then south clear/deep. Excited to try 1/16 and 1/8 oz Scrounger on the bank (more weedless, slower than a jig — clear bill; 2" Lucky Bug on 1/16, 2½" on 1/8). Also great when whites return to banks. Bass anglers’ ledge/flat secret expanding to Walleye, White Bass, Crappie.
Shad kill
Biggest part over — fewer gulls/reports. Cats should get excellent shallow latter March through April–May.
Rivers
Strong White Bass and some Crappie posts in the Facebook group — 2½" swimming minnows; Crappie Magic crankbait across holes/gravel bars (whites slaughter it).
Paddlefish
Haydn good weekend — Shangri-La to Grace Ranch and a bit farther. One or two warm rains and many Paddlefish in the Neosho at Miami — barbless treble required for snagging.
Dealers
fishlucke.com — ~40% American-made with Toby Keith’s family; ask dealers.